Why Gluten Free/Dairy Free

In the winter/spring of 2012, our family of four went gluten-free and dairy-free under the guidance of a clinical nutritionist. None of us are allergic to wheat or dairy; rather, we found that each of us have varying levels of gluten and dairy intolerance, meaning that our bodies don’t properly digest these foods.

The terms “wheat” and “gluten” are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Gluten is a protein that is found in wheat, barley and rye. While all wheat contains gluten, not all gluten comes from wheat. Those with a wheat allergy experience an allergic reaction…when wheat is consumed. Gluten intolerance is inability to properly digest gluten, which is a protein found in wheat, barley and rye. (From SF Gate)

We each experience some symptoms that range from mildly to greatly annoying:

Constipation

High Fevers and Ear infections

Weight gain

Insomnia

Excessive Mucus (in the back of the throat)

After trying to (unsuccessfully) treat the symptoms, I was intrigued by the approach Dr. Chapa‘s approach: solve the underlying problem and heal the body.

So we tried it. And my husband lost 25 pounds, I lost 10. My older son and I started having healthy intestinal function. My youngest went from having ear infections and high fevers every 3-6 weeks to once every 6 months or so, My insomnia went from 2-3 nights a week to once a month, if that. It worked.

Honestly, we don’t stay 100% GF/DF, but most of our dietary choices are.